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Overview

Learn to solve some of society’s most complex problems by applying civil engineering techniques and technologies. Get hands-on experience on site and in our labs, and gain the practical skills employers want. Our course is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) acting on behalf of ICE, IstructE, IHT and IHIE for the Engineering Council UK. This means that, with further learning, our course leads to CEng status.

For more information about placement opportunities, please contact the Placements Team.

Civil engineering changes our world – from buildings and transport to the environment and civil protection. It covers everything from creative concepts to physical construction and maintenance.

Designing and building structures like bridges, roads, airports and flood defences demands a high degree of technical skill. Our course will teach you to approach civil engineering projects competently, responsibly, ethically and safely.

You’ll already have an interest in maths, design and construction. You’ll be keen to explore your creativity, and aware of pressing global issues like overpopulation and climate change. While at Anglia Ruskin, you’ll learn about health and safety, sustainable development and environment issues within the context of civil engineering.

Engineers work in professional practice, advising clients. Therefore, you’ll learn a range of transferable skills, including how to manage projects and contracts; statistics; management techniques; and principles of IT. You’ll become a creative problem solver and a confident communicator, able to work well independently and in a team.

Our facilities are the perfect places to test and research different materials and designs. You’ll work in specialist labs for geotechnics, hydraulics, structures, engineering materials and concrete testing. In the first year you will attend Constructionarium, a week long field course, and build for real an iconic structure (just a little smaller than the original). You'll also go out on site visits, and hear guest lecturers from industry. You might even want to enhance your skills and CV by doing a work placement year.

Careers

Civil engineers can specialise in two areas – design and production. Our course prepares you for both.
• Design civil engineers work mainly in offices, looking at the need for projects and how a particular project can be achieved.
• Production civil engineers work and plan on-site, check the quality of work, and oversee schedules and budgets.
Graduation doesn’t need to be the end of your time with us. If you would like to continue your studies we offer a wide range of full-time and part-time postgraduate courses including MSc Civil Engineering.

Modules & assessment

Year one, core modules

This module is intended to be both preparatory and supportive, building a strong foundation for learning and later development. You will gain Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills for information management and presentation purposes. You will be encouraged to use contemporary ICT methods for research and for the production and presentation of reports, in a style suitable both for your university coursework and the commercial environment. You will also develop skills in carrying out desk top research and self-directed study.

This module addresses key elements of civil engineering construction, placing them firmly alongside the management responsibility to ensure the prioritisation of health and safety within the work environment at all times. As the technical aspects of engineering are addressed, specific considerations of harm, hazard and risk are explored, ensuring the relevance of health and safety management within the civil engineering construction context. We will assess your learning through group work, investigating a civil engineering related problem. You will present your solution through a report and 20 minute presentation.

You will be introduced to the broad area of Geotechnical Engineering and basic Geological concepts. You will be provided with the fundamental understanding of the classification, properties, behaviour and mechanics of soils that will allow you to proceed at a later stage to geotechnical design. Additionally you will be introduced to soils laboratory practice and given the opportunity to relate the results of soil laboratory tests to theoretical concepts and the practical needs of civil engineering construction. This module will provide a medium for development of skills in algebraic manipulations which are applied to the relationships between basic soil properties.

Through the use of a range of traditional and contemporary instruments and methodology the module will enable you to gain experience in applying the elementary surveying techniques of levelling and linear measurement, both for detail acquisition and setting out. The relevant mathematical skills will be introduced and developed contextually. Final survey drawings will be produced and annotated.

You will gain the underpinning knowledge and skills in mathematics for use in subsequent modules in civil engineering such as structural analysis, structural design, hydraulics and geotechnics together with application of mathematical techniques to surveying and management. About half the module will cover the theory and applications of calculus to engineering problems. You will also deal with a range of mathematical theories and techniques but in particular will develop practical applications such as the position and second moment of area for a given shape. The equations of curves from observed or measured data, the calculation of irregular areas and volumes and problems of geometry will also be explored. You will also study basic statistical techniques applied, where possible to engineering applications such as concrete mixes.

This module will introduce you to some of the basic analytical concepts and processes involved in the design of structures. You will develop the analytical skills required to carry out basic calculations and will be introduced to basic 2D drafting techniques using industry standard software which will allow you to effectively interpret technical drawing. You will also be introduced to Building Information Modelling (BIM) and gain an appreciation of the role of the designer in civil engineering and develop an understanding of the design process.

For an engineer to make reasoned decisions about the materials to be used in a project an understanding of processing, structure and properties is necessary. By the end of this module you will be familiar with the material properties relevant to engineering performance and how these properties are defined. You will also be introduced to the basic building blocks of materials and how these affect their engineering properties and relevant properties of materials will be defined and discussed in the context of engineering solutions.

This module provides you with an understanding of the relationship between design and technology. It introduces you to the concept that the realisation of design into built form requires building technology and also how that technology has a very real influence on the generation of the design. Technological tools used in current design practice will be studied and you will be encouraged to investigate the most recent innovations in design practice.

Year two, core modules

You'll analyse structural behaviour under static and dynamic loading conditions. In the mechanics part of this module you’ll understand how structures resist external static loads and the dynamics part will develop your understanding of effects of dynamic loads and how to apply this to predict the dynamic response of civil engineering structures. You’ll spend much of your time in laboratory sessions and take part in group-based problem solving tutorial classes.

This module aims to provide an introduction to hydrology, including a study of the most important hydrological processes (such as precipitation, runoff and flooding) operating in the environment, and to hydrological ways of thinking. Additionally, this module will introduce most statistical concepts and mathematical models used in hydrology. Moreover, this module will develop knowledge and understanding on real-life application of hydrological concepts and processes.

You will be introduced to the principles of fluid mechanics and establish its relevance in civil engineering in the design of pipes and channels. You will cover the principles of hydrostatics and derive and apply equations for calculation of pressures and forces on submerged and partially submerged objects. Laboratory sessions are used to give you the opportunity to explore the limitations of the mathematical models of fluid behaviour. You will be assessed through a group based lab report covering a series of fluid mechanics experiments and a written examination.

Discover both traditional and contemporary advanced survey techniques and capture, manipulate and utilise field data for both horizontal control and detail acquisition. You will also gain hands on experience using total stations, for data capture and for setting out. You will also gain an understanding of how remote surveying by extra-terrestrial systems has evolved and of how a variety of control systems relate to the Ordnance Survey National Grid. Finally, you will learn how to process survey data to produce and your final survey drawings using AutoCAD and present them in a style appropriate to industry.

You will be introduced to the techniques that lie behind the solution of engineering problems. The methods tend to be hidden within software, you will gain an insight into the techniques, their application and their limitations so that you can make informed judgements on reliability of software solutions. Calculus is extended to partial differentiation and its applications and Laplace transforms and matrices are considered in depth. A statistics section is also included applied to the numerous areas of civil engineering which use these techniques. You will be prepared to undertake appropriate analysis in areas such as hydraulics, geotechnics, structural analysis and design.

You will cover the design of structures in general and the elemental design in three materials. You will be introduced to basic design philosophy, principles and procedures used in the design of structural elements in buildings and structures. You will be expected to learn mainly through application of the design theory covered in class and by completing the design coursework and tutorial exercises and through independent study. It is envisaged that undergoing this course will gain you an appreciation of the role of the designer in the construction process and have an understanding of the design process.

This module is designed to give you a thorough grounding in the principles and manufacture of materials used in the construction industry. The aim is to provide you with a practical understanding of the factors, which influence the properties and durability from the design requirements to the finished product. You'll be introduced to the more common construction materials such as steel, concrete and timber as well as polymers and bituminous materials. A well-structured laboratory work programme is used to give you practical experience of the theoretical concepts explained in the lectures.

This module will provide you student with an understanding of the relationship between design and technology. It will introduce you to the concept that the realisation of design into built form requires building technology and also how that technology has a very real influence on the generation of the design. You will explore technology strategically as well as to develop it in detailed solutions. The importance of economics in technical design will also be explored. You will also be introduced to the technology currently in use in design in the industry.

Year three, core modules

You will investigate the way in which traditional and more modern civil engineering contracts handle situations that may arise on site. We will compare different approaches to contractual arrangements and payment so you will be able to advise on the most appropriate approach for a particular project. You will also cover external influences such as European and National legislation and standards.

You will enhance your understanding of the behaviour of low rise steel and concrete structures. This module has two parts: Analysis and Design. The analysis part aims to introduce you to the modelling and solutions of indeterminate frames and trusses. The design part of the module aims to introduce you to the design of low-rise structures and alternative forms of structural elements. Your lectures are specifically designed to cover the fundamental principles of structural analysis and design theory. These are reinforced through group-based coursework assignments and problem solving tutorial classes. You will undertake a piece of coursework on structural design to Eurocodes as well as an end examination.

You will extend your knowledge of basic soil properties to an understanding of soil strength in the context of the principles of effective stress. You will be introduced to geotechnical design methods for foundations and modern design of earth-retaining systems using Codes of Practice and the philosophy of the limit state. You will be assessed through a piece of coursework and end examination. For the coursework you will be expected to show an understanding of geotechnic engineering through a piece of design work using state of the art infinite element analysis software.

This module will develop your ability to evaluate and resolve practical problems and work as part of a design team. The module will help you apply the skills and knowledge developed in other modules of the course (and where possible, experiences from work) within a project that reflects the type of performance expected of construction technologists. It is designed to bring small groups together into teams so you coordinate your individual skills and abilities. The scheme of work should allow you an opportunity to take responsibility for your own contribution to the outcome and to demonstration your ability to work as part of a team. The brief will include an agreed timescale for the staged development of the overall plan of work within defined constraints, with the team working towards an acceptable and viable solution to the brief. You’ll become conversant with the importance of good quality control, compacting, placing and curing will be assessed.

You will understand the responses of different structures under dynamic actions and the fundamental principles and methods of earthquake resistant design of building structures to Eurocode 8. You will learn about the different type of dynamic loads, the causes and effects of an earthquake and how to carry out the full 3D modelling of a structure under an earthquake using state of the art conceptual and detailed designs of an earthquake resistant structure.

This module enables students to carry out an individual piece of research in the civil engineering field which will require a literature review of current knowledge in the chosen topic area, the formulation of a research question and the collection of primary data through experimentation or numerical modelling. The research will be undertaken under the supervision of an academic member of staff but there will be classroom sessions to support students in the definition of the research topic and explain the processes of reviewing literature, formulating a research question and the collection and the evaluation of primary data.

Year three, optional modules

In this module you will develop your understanding of the flood risk management framework and the different approaches taken to flood defense. You will focus on topics such as hydrological principles of flooding and will be introduced to different flooding drivers, impacts and the required interventions/strategies (mitigation and adaptation) to cope with that. You will also focus on flood risk formulation and assessment and will be introduced to various methods for flood frequency analysis and computer modelling of flooding.

You’ll appreciate problems and techniques associated with highway design, construction and maintenance and learn how to formulate technical solutions.
You’ll become conversant with pavement design, which will be discussed in the context of construction techniques. You’ll also acquire knowledge on the principles and practice of bridge construction, maintenance and design. The concept of sustainability in construction using recyclable materials will be discussed, project work is used to give you a practical feel of the theoretical concepts explained in the lectures.

Assessment

Throughout the course, we’ll use a range of assessment methods to help you and your tutors measure your progress. Besides exams, you’ll demonstrate your learning though a mix of assignments, group work, presentations, drawings, lab work and projects.

Where you'll study

Your faculty

The Faculty of Science & Engineering is one of the largest of the four faculties at Anglia Ruskin University. Whether you choose to study with us full-time or part-time, on campus or at a distance, there’s an option whatever your level – from a foundation degree, BSc, MSc, PhD or professional doctorate.

Whichever course you pick, you’ll gain the theory and practical skills needed to progress with confidence. Join us and you could find yourself learning in the very latest laboratories or on field trips or work placements with well-known and respected companies. You may even have the opportunity to study abroad.

Everything we do in the faculty has a singular purpose: to provide a world-class environment to create, share and advance knowledge in science and technology fields. This is key to all of our futures.

Where can I study?

Additional study information

Placements

This course gives you the opportunity to take a work placement year between years 2 and 3 of your studies. You’ll get experience of seeking and securing a job and working in an industry relating to your course. You’ll also get the practical experience and industry contacts to benefit your studies and enhance your long-term career prospects.

Although they can’t be guaranteed, we can work with you to find a placement using our contacts with a large number of employers. You’ll have regular contact with one of our course tutors and be supported by a supervisor from your placement company. Together they’ll monitor your performance and give you feedback.

UK & EU students starting 2018/19 or 2019/20 (per year)

International students starting 2018/19 (per year)

International students starting 2019/20 (per year)

Placement year (UK, EU, international students)

Fee information

For more information about tuition fees, including the UK Government's commitment to EU students, please see our UK/EU funding pages

Additional costs

Safety footwear (steel toe and midsole) - £40

Additional costs for Constructionarium
You will be asked to make a contribution of £250 towards the cost of food and accommodation. You will also be asked to provide your own safety shoes or boots and warm outdoor clothing. Other personal protective equipment will be provided.

How do I pay my fees?

Tuition fee loan

You can take out a tuition fee loan, which you won’t need to start repaying until after your graduate. Or alternatively, there's the option to pay your fees upfront.

International students

Funding for UK & EU students

Most new undergraduate students can apply for government funding to support their studies and university life. This includes Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans. There are additional grants available for specific groups of students, such as those with disabilities or dependants.

Funding for international students

Entry requirements

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Important additional notes

Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements. Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course, please email answers@anglia.ac.uk for further information.

All tariff points must come from A levels. Points from AS levels cannot be counted towards the total tariff points required for entry to this course.

International students

We welcome applications from international and EU students, and accept a range of international qualifications.